What do Kacey Musgraves, Logic and Dane Cook have in common? Other than being talented in their own unique ways, all three performers are taking their acts out on the road and to Toyota Music Factory this month. Irving’s newest and biggest entertainment district has brought big names to the area since opening in September 2017. But for those who haven’t ventured down Highway 114 to explore the area, we’ve rounded up a few destinations worth the trip. When put together, and planned in accordance with one of the pavilion’s exciting shows, these three stops make for quite the date night.
For a calm yet intimate start to the night, stop into Nosh and Bottle. The gourmet market offers classic deli favorites like salads and sandwiches, but it’s the charcuterie boards that shine. Split one as an appetizer while assessing the wine selection. Nosh and Bottle prides itself on its range of varietals, so guests can come in and enjoy a glass of house wine for under $10 or a bottle worth up to $500. The shop’s collection includes varietals sourced from a few different countries as well as some of the finest from California’s wine country.
A quick stroll down the street will lead you to Kabuki, a bright yet approachable Japanese eatery. The sleek decor includes wallpaper sporting koi fish and Japanese drums lining the interior. And the comprehensive menu offers everything from sushi and sashimi to rice bowls and ramen. For a sharable experience, order a few small plates to start. The Fried Gyoza Dumplings come out crispy and the Grilled Pork Belly, served with jalapenos and green onion, melts in your mouth. It’s easy to split a few of their signature rolls to get a better feel of all their offerings. Whether you want something light like the Sunkissed Roll made with spicy tuna, fresh salmon and avocado, or a bolder variety like the Aladdin Roll boasting spicy albacore, shrimp tempura, garlic crunch and spicy ponzu sauce, the sushi selection leaves plenty of room to explore. Pair your spread with a specialty cocktail or premium sake to make the most out of your meal.
If you still need to kill some time before your show or want to wait out the post-concert parking garage traffic, Reservoir offers both happy hour and late night options for Toyota Music Factory patrons. The Fort Worth sports bar opened its second location in the Irving entertainment district last year, and they have been offering comfort food and drink favorites ever since. The Angry Pigs In A Blanket, spicy Louisiana sausage wrapped in house-made dough brushed with garlic and Parmesan, acts as a tasty snack perfect for munching while the Brick Oven Fired Peach Cobbler, topped with vanilla ice cream, provides that sweet finish most of us crave after a long night out. Wash them down with a classic cocktail or use those last few bites to savor your night out in Irving.